For many of us, our mothers are our biggest cheerleaders. From the first scrapes on our knees to the first time that unkind words are spoken to us, she has stood ready to make it all better.

She always had an arsenal of compliments, accompanied by a kiss and a hug, making the worst day have the brightest silver lining. We looked to her for advice. She has been someone to share our hopes and dreams with. A smiling face, a listening ear, a voice of reason in the face of life’s turmoil — that’s a mother.

Now, as Americans face the crisis that is laid out before us on our televisions each night, we’re looking for someone to fix it.

wWhile no one seems to have the answer as to how we should go about this great repair, we all want to look to someone who can give us the confidence that it will all be alright.

On Sunday afternoon, Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin spoke from the stand of a small town in Ohio. During this rally, it was evident why Americans, whether they are Democrats, Republicans or Independents, find her so appealing. She has that motherly quality. She smiles the sweetest smile and cheers on the American people even in the wake of all of the turmoil that we face as a nation. She has become a star, with the national media focusing on every detail about her and her family. Americans become somewhat defensive when she is photographed in a less than flattering close-up or when a unique angle is used by a photographer to show an audience’s view of her. No matter what your opinion is of the presidential race, you know that you just can not get enough of the GOP vice presidential nominee.

We’re looking for a cheerleader, a supporter, someone to make it all better. As Gov. Palin speaks, she smiles and gives Americans that same comfort that comes from a mother.

She’s becoming an American icon and it seems that she holds a type of Band-Aid for the great boo-boo’s of our times. She can curl her pointer finger around her thumb and point it at any audience; much like a mother would do, and make anyone feel like she’s got it all under control.

As you watch her address individuals, you’ll see her offer warm handshakes, pats on the back and always a bright smile.

While no one is sure how this presidential race and economical crisis will all pan out, we can all agree that there’s no shortage of bumps and scrapes facing the American people over the next three weeks.

We’ll gladly take any encouragement and optimism that we can get. So, Gov. Palin, cheer on!

Wendy Ward can be reached at 670-6301 or via email at wendy.ward@troymessenger.com.